A creative writing job is one that usually pays decently. The only problem is that sometimes there aren’t that many jobs available. Most people that write creatively do it as a hobby or for their own entertainment. However, some do it professionally and earn a decent living from it.
Let’s take a look at how much these positions pay, shall we?
Salaries
The median salary for a creative writing job is around $26,000 per year. On the low end, you can find positions paying around $20,000 per year and on the high end, around $35,000 per year. The more specialized the job is, the more it typically pays. For example, magazine editors earn a higher median salary than fiction writers. In general, the closer you are to getting a pay rise, the more effort you have to put in. It’s a bit like getting a raise at work, but in a good way.
Benefits
Many employers will provide some form of benefit for employees. These can range from a gym membership to a free coffee machine (which you probably aren’t going to like, but it’s there if you need it). Many employers will also provide a bus pass or an employee discount at certain restaurants. These are all small things that make a difference when you’re paying hourly wages, but it’s still nice to receive them.
Location
Where you live has a lot to do with how much you can earn as a creative writer. If you want to earn more, you should consider moving to an expensive area. While it’s not always the case, the cost of living generally goes up with the pay. This means you can make more money comparatively speaking. This isn’t always the case though, as some of the most expensive places to live are actually quite cheap. The key is to find the right place for you.
Job Security
Even though a creative writing job can be quite lucrative, you shouldn’t assume that it has perpetual job security. The media often gets involved in rapid shifts in technology and these can make your job obsolete without you even realizing it. It’s always best to be prepared for changes in the industry. Finding online courses that can update your skills set is a great way to prepare for the future.
Job Satisfaction
This one is tricky. While some people might not find satisfaction in a creative writing job, it’s definitely a viable option. After all, this is a hobby for many and it can bring in some decent side income. If this is what you want to do, go for it, but be sure to find some form of professional fulfillment outside of work as well.
Creating fiction can also be quite cathartic. For some, this is the only outlet they have for their feelings and it can be therapeutic in the sense that it allows them to explore topics that they might not have the courage to discuss in public. If this is you, consider pursuing a creative writing job as a way to help yourself and others like you. Just remember to be realistic about it and don’t expect it to bring in huge earnings. This is not the purpose of this article.
Why Are Creative Writing Jobs In Demand?
The fact is that there are more and more individuals who are interested in writing creatively. In 2019, around 49% of adults in the U.S. said that they wrote prose “almost daily,” which is the highest percentage since the question was first asked in 2004.
What’s driving this trend? If you want to find out, just look at the platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. On these platforms, you’ll often find people posting their favorite pieces of prose, as well as the stories and novels that inspired them.
In addition, many people are finding that writing creatively can be a great way to express their feelings. If you’re looking for a hobby that can bring in some extra cash and allow you to explore new topics, consider writing creatively as a possible option.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a way to make a living, you should probably consider a non-creative writing job. Still, if this is something that you enjoy doing, don’t underestimate the power of your words and what they can do to change lives for the better.